Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has implored citizens of Gombe State to come out and vote in an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity.
The governor said this during a state-wide broadcast ahead of the Presidential and National Assembly elections, to ensure that the elections were peaceful, free, fair and credible.
He urged all political parties, individuals and groups, to shun all forms of violence and incitements before, during and after the elections.
“The security agencies are ever ready to ensure that people who are willing to vote are able to do so without any fear, intimidation or harassment; and to deal decisively with any politician or group that seeks to foment trouble,” said GovernorYahaya,” Governor Yahaya said.
He particularly stressed and encouraged the citizens to keep in mind that the peace, unity and stability of Gombe State and Nigeria were bigger than the political ambition of any individual or group.
According to him, it was his responsibility to protect the peace and stability of Gombe State and as such would not allow or tolerate any attempt to undermine the elections in order to serve, what he termed the evil agenda of any individual or group.
The Gombe State Governor called on all stakeholders to desist from spreading and promoting fake news and hateful political propaganda, or participating in any conduct capable of undermining the credibility of the elections.
He also called on religious and traditional leaders in the state to use their role to ensure the orderly conduct of the 2023 elections.
“I would like to thank them for their cooperation and patriotism so far. I urge them to intensify their sermons and prayers for the peaceful conduct of the elections, and to refrain from any campaign of sectarian incitement and violence. I also call on our traditional rulers to be fatherly in their conduct, and to exercise greater responsibility over their subjects,” said Governor Yahaya.
He commended security agencies for their commitment and loyalty to the country, who strive to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy, while giving the assurances of his unconditional support and cooperation.
To the civil society groups, including domestic and international election observer missions, Governor Yahaya urged them to approach their assignment with patriotism and fear of God.
Overall, Governor Yahaya called on the public to continue to conduct its activities in peace, tolerance and mutual respect.
“Our diverse political choices should in no way affect our relationship with friends, relatives or neighbors. Let’s vote in peace, shake hands and embrace each other, and wait for the result. Whatever the outcome is, let’s commit our affairs to Almighty Allah, for He is the best disposer of affairs. He gives power to whoever he wishes at his own will,” Governor Yahaya said.
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